Particle Size Analysis of Simulant Sludge Slurries and Tank 40 Radioactive Sludge Slurry

Abstract

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYAs part of the PET (Process Engineering Technology) simulant development program, an investigation was initiated to determine the best method for particle size analysis of both simulant and radioactive sludge slurries using a physical separation method (i.e. sieving) or a laser light diffraction method such as Microtrac or Lasentec. The experiments performed in this investigation were completed with Sludge Batch 3 simulant and radioactive sludge slurries. The long-term goals of the investigation were: (1) to build a database of the size of particles in actual radioactive waste tank sludge and determine the impact of particle size on rheology, and (2) to aid in the development of simulant slurries that closely match the particle size and rheological behavior of radioactive sludge.

SRS High Level Waste Processing - Tank Farm to DWPF

“…The mean volumetric particle size (VPS) obtained using light scattering ranged between 4 to 23 microns and was dependent on what type of fluid was used to dilute the solids for the measurement. 8,9 The 23 micron slurry was further sonicated and the mean VPS reduce to 5 microns. 8 Recent precipitation tests in an unbaffled mixing tank performed by SRNL to support…”

“…8,9 The 23 micron slurry was further sonicated and the mean VPS reduce to 5 microns. 8 Recent precipitation tests in an unbaffled mixing tank performed by SRNL to support…”